Overview​

Since most of us will outlive our ability to drive safely by five to ten years, it is important that we all take steps to plan for a transition away from driving.

This page provides information about transportation options that do not require a car. This includes resources available for getting around within your local community or for traveling across the state.

Trip Plans & Travel

Public transit is an option for people who cannot drive, and it is a great alternative for people who choose not to drive. Oregon is an environmentally conscious state and many people prefer to take public transit as a way of doing their part to help protect the environment. Also, many transit districts within the state offer travel training, a service that teaches individuals how to use the local transit system.

ODOT's Public Transit Trip Plans and Travel page provides multiple resources for traveling without the use of an automobile, including links to:

TripCheck Transportation Options (Oregon Department of Transportation's one-stop shop for information on traveling in the state, including information on buses, light rail, dial-a-ride, taxis, commuter trains, shuttles, special accommodations for wheelchairs and bicycles, a map and timetable of all statewide transit connections, weather and construction updates, cameras showing areas throughout the state, and more)

Rideshare/Vanpool Resources

Google Transit

ODOT's Bicycle and Pedestrian Program

You may also call (800) 977-ODOT (6368) or dial 511 within Oregon for road conditions and highway closure updates.

Aging & Disability Resource Connection of OregonThe Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) of Oregon Web site allows users to search for services including transportation. Once you click on your county and then on the service you need, a list of available resources in your area is displayed. The site searches for a variety of transportation alternatives including car sharing programs, disability and paratransit transportation, bus services, medical transportation, and transportation expense assistance. The site also has a self assessment section that allows users to assess what other type of services that may be available to them based on their needs. You can do the assessment for yourself, a family member, or a friend.

Oregon 2-1-1Oregon 2-1-1is an easy to remember three-digit dialing code that enables a caller to access a number of health and human service programs throughout Oregon. The corresponding Web site includes a Community Resources Database which has information on transportation options throughout the state.

TaxiThe Taxicab, Limousine, and Para Transit AssociationWeb site allows users to search available transportation services in their state.

Family and Community Resources

Family members and friends may be able to take you to appointments or help you run errands. Agree to offer a service in return such as a lunch, baby sitting, or a movie. If you attend a church, see if they have a transportation program. Many churches offer this service as a service to their members.

Retirement communities, senior homes, and assisted living facilities also commonly have transportation available, and not just for errands. Many schedule fun trips and other activities. The key is to never be afraid or embarrassed to ask. You might be surprised at how willing people are to help.

Related Information

Additional information that may be relevant includes:

The AAA Foundation for Highway Safety- Getting Around: Alternatives for Seniors Who No Longer Drivereport summarizes the activities and outcomes of a project conducted by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety in eight Southern California sites and may provide valuable information for those wishing to replicate the effort in their communities.

The National Center on Senior Transportation (NCST) Web site provides resources and services available to support senior transportation throughout the U.S., including a tip sheet designed for both caregivers who drive older family members in their own vehicles as well as the older family members who are their passengers.

The National Older Driver Research and Training Center (NODRTC) Web site provides information and resources on alternative forms of transportation, driving knowledge and skills, and links to national organizations that address transportation issues.